Chihuahuas are one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. Known for their tiny size and big personalities, however, they require special care and attention when it comes to traveling. Whether you’re going on a short trip to the vet or embarking on a long vacation, having the right carrier or tote is essential to your Chihuahua’s comfort and safety.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
Chihuahua Carrier Uses
A carrier is an essential item that all Chihuahua owners need to own. Even if your Chihuahua stays cooped up inside the house most of the time, there will still be occasions when you need to take him for a car ride.
If you’re headed out of town for vacation, you may need to take your Chihuahua to a friend’s house. Alternatively, you may need to take your Chihuahua to the veterinarian for an annual checkup.
friend’s house or just taking them to the veterinarian for an annual checkup, your Chihuahua will have to leave the house as some point or another. Using a specialized carrier or travel bag will offer a safe and convenient way to transport your Chihuahua.
Making the decision to purchase a Chihuahua carrier is an investment that is certain to pay off in the long run. Many owners don’t realize just how useful they are until they own one. While the most obvious use is that it allows you to travel with your Chihuahua in a safe manner, but there are some other uses that you may be unaware of. Let’s take a look at some of the main uses for a Chihuahua carrier.
One of the greatest benefits of using a Chihuahua carrier is that it allows you to keep them safe and secure when making trips to the veterinarian. Most vet offices are filled with dogs, cats and other family pets, and this may create a dangerous situation for Chihuahuas that are allowed to roam free. If your Chihuahua instinctively runs up and acts aggressively towards other pets in the waiting area (this actually happens a lot), they could start a fight that ends in a serious injury. As you probably know, Chihuahuas have the Napoleon Complex and try to pick fights with dogs much larger dogs. This can all be prevented, however, by keeping your Chihuahua secure in a carrier or travel bag when you take them to the vet.
Being that Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world, and arguably the cutest as well, many owners prefer having them by their side when running errands, picking up food or just for a drive around the neighborhood. Like most dogs, Chihuahuas love the attention and opportunity to get outside the house for a while. This creates a valuable bonding experience that naturally strengthens the relationship between you and your Chihuahua. Of course, you’ll need a proper carrier or tote if you plan on taking them with you, but that’s where we come in!
What To Look For In a Chihuahua Carrier
When shopping for a Chihuahua carrier, you might be surprised to see just how many different types there are. Some of them are small over-the-shoulder straps that mimic a pouch, while others are designed in a style similar to a backpack. However, these are just two of the many different types of carriers available. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. If you’re having trouble choosing one, use the following criteria to help narrow your selection down.
First and foremost, identify how the carrier itself is transported. For instance, bikers or those who frequently travel on food will likely want a backpack-style carrier. On the other hand, a traditional briefcase-style carrier would work fine for those traveling by car.
You’ll also need to factor in size when choosing a Chihuahua carrier. Ideally, it should be just large enough for them to stand up and turn their body around in. While you can still use carriers larger than this, it makes transportation more difficult and increases the chance that your Chihuahua will use the bathroom in their carrier.
Airflow is something that’s oftentimes overlooked by those searching for a new Chihuahua carrier. Unless it’s an open-top carrier, it needs to have a mesh screen or holes poked in the sides to allow fresh air in.
It’s not pleasant to think about, but accidents will likely happen inside your Chihuahua’s carrier. Thankfully, some carriers are designed with ease of cleaning in mind, so you’ll want to factor this into your decision. When your Chihuahua has an accident in their carrier, and they will, you’ll want to be able to clean it out quickly and easily.
Lastly, comfort should always be considered when purchasing a new Chihuahua carrier. Remember, these accessories are primarily used to transport Chihuahuas, so they will probably be spending quite a bit of time in it. You can make their temporary living quarters more comfortable by offering them a soft interior lining with a blanket or two added.
You can check all of the pet stores and retailers in your area and still not find a single set of Chihuahua paw-wear, so how are you supposed to get them for your Chihuahua? We make the process quick and easy by connecting you to one of the largest selections of Chihuahua boots, booties, shoes and paw-wear for sale.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
If you’re looking to give your Chihuahua a stylish edge over other well-dressed canines, you should consider purchasing a set of boots or similar “paw-wear” for them. They add a naturally stylish element to your Chihuahua’s look that’s sure to turn heads as you walk them in the neighborhood or park. After all, how many dogs do you see sporting a set of shoes or booties on their paws? Most people have never even heard of such things, let alone use them on their canines. You can use this to your advantage by dressing your Chihuahua up to set them apart from the rest.
Benefits of Chihuahua Paw-Wear
Naturally, one might assume that Chihuahua paw-wear is a novelty item with no real benefits. While many owners dress their Chihuahuas up in them for this reason alone, the fact is that paw-wear does offer some unique benefits that shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re trying to decide whether or not to use them on your Chihuahua, just take a look at some of the advantages listed here.
Helps to protect your Chihuahua’s paws from cuts, scrapes and other injuries.
Offers a valuable layer of thermal insulation that keeps your Chihuahua’s paws warm during the cold winter months.
Creates a barrier between your Chihuahua’s paws and the snow, rain or other elements.
Dressing a Chihuahua up in paw-wear is a fun bonding time for both the owner and the Chihuahua.
Everyone loves seeing a cute Chihuahua wearing a set of booties or shoes!
Which Type of Paw-Wear Should I Choose?
Because it’s going on your Chihuahua’s paws, you’ll want to make sure they are soft and comfortable. This may be somewhat difficult to accomplish if you’re purchasing them online, but you should still be able to see what material they are made of. Ideally, paw-wear for your Chihuahua should be made with a soft interior material and a tougher exterior material. Whether they are shoes, boots or booties, they must be made to endure and withstand anything that mother nature throws their way; otherwise, you could end up having to replace them a couple of months down the road. A good vinyl, polyester or even rubber outer material should hold up well in most weather conditions, which is exactly what you want in a set of paw-wear.
While the exterior of your Chihuahua’s paw-wear needs to be tough and durable, the interior needs to be soft. Remember, Chihuahuas have small and delicate paws, and trying to force the wrong boots or shoes on them can easily cause discomfort. So how do you know if a set of paw-wear is comfortable or not? You can usually tell by simply looking at a picture of them, as comfortable sets will have a visible fur or cotton lining inside them. The ones you should avoid are paw-wear sets with no extra “comfort” layer inside them. Stick with the ones that look well-made and have a fur or some other type of lining inside them and your Chihuahua should naturally fall in love with their new shoes.
Tips on Using Chihuahua Paw-Wear
Since paw-wear isn’t used as frequently as Chihuahua shirts or other forms of apparel, you might have some questions about using them. First and foremost, take a minute or two to closely inspect the shoes or boots to see how they fit on a Chihuahua’s paws. Most of them should slide right on without a problem, but others may require some laces or straps to be removed. It should be fairly easy to determine how the paw-wear fits on a Chihuahua, but if you’re unable to figure it out, contact the manufacturer and ask them. Trust me, you don’t want to force shoes or boots on your Chihuahua’s paws in a manner they weren’t intended for.
When placing paw-wear on your Chihuahua, always use extreme caution and be as gentle as possible. As previously stated, Chihuahuas have small and fragile paws that can be injured if they are mishandled. To prevent this from occurring, you must never try and move their paws in unnatural ways. If your Chihuahua is pulling their paw away from you, don’t force it but instead put the boots down and try again later. Petting and talking to your Chihuahua may help them grow more relaxed and accepting of their new paw-wear. Once you get it on their paws, be sure to give them a treat as a reward.
Here you can shop through our wide selection of Chihuahua sweaters for sale. If you’re looking for a warmer alternative to traditional shirts and other light pet clothes, sweaters are the perfect choice. They’re warm, cozy and come in countless different styles to fit any Chihuahua’s personality.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
Benefits of Owning a Chihuahua Sweater
Chihuahua sweaters are arguably one of the best all-around types of clothes you can dress your furry four-legged friend up in. When the fall and winter seasons approach and the temperatures begin to drop, a thick sweater offers a valuable layer of thermal protection for a small Chihuahua. Even if your Chihuahua stays inside, which most do, they’ll still need to be walked outside daily where they’re exposed to the cold weather. Thankfully, however, a sweater can offer a valuable layer of thermal protection against the biting cold winds and freezing temperatures, so make sure to include them in your Chihuahua’s wardrobe.
Many owners seem to forget that Chihuahuas are more affected by the cold weather than other dogs. The reason for this is simply due to their small size and stature. With less body mass, there’s naturally less protection against cold temperatures. Something as simple as a cotton or wool sweater can help keep them warm on those cold winter days.
What Type of Sweater Should I Choose?
Need a little help choosing a sweater for your Chihuahua? With so many different types available, trying to narrow your selection down to one can be difficult. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of things you should consider when shopping for a new Chihuahua sweater.
What material is the sweater made of? Arguably the most important thing you need to be aware of when shopping for a Chihuahua sweater is the material it’s made of. You really can’t go wrong with a soft cotton, wool or cotton/wool blend, as these are super-comfortable and tend to hold up well on even the most active Chihuahuas. If you’re unsure whether or not a certain material will cause discomfort, take a minute to feel it with your hands. Just run your hands down the side of it to see if it’s soft.
Does it have pockets, hoods or other neat little features? There’s nothing wrong with a plain old basic sweater, but some of them can have neat little accents that really add a stylish flair to your Chihuahua’s look. If it contains extra zippers, pockets, hoods or anything else, you need to be aware of how it affects your Chihuahua’s comfort level when worn. Some poorly made sweaters may have zippers or stitching that pokes and irritates a Chihuahua.
What color and designs does it feature? Chihuahua sweaters come in a countless number of designs, colors and styles. Whether you want a basic single-color sweater or one with a more uniquely stylish design, chances are there’s something out there for your Chihuahua. Take your time to browse through the available selections until you come across one that stands out from the rest. Ideally, you want a sweater that reflects your canine companion’s personality and characteristics.
How does it fit on my Chihuahua? Of course you’ll have to consider the size of any sweater you’re thinking of purchasing for your Chihuahua. Just like our shirts and sweaters come in different sizes, so do those made for Chihuahuas. Depending on who manufactured it, there may be a simple sizing of small, medium and large. Carefully read the description to see what size dogs the sweater is intended to fit and choose the one that your Chihuahua falls under.
When To Dress Your Chihuahua Up In a Sweater
Some owners are under the impression that sweaters are meant only for the winter months when temperatures start dropping. While they are certainly useful for the winter, sweaters can also be worn year-round under the right circumstances. In fact, a lot of smooth-coat Chihuahuas seem to enjoy the soft feel of a nice sweater against their body. It creates a protective layer against the wind, rain and other elements that Chihuahuas are naturally susceptible to.
If you plan on dressing your Chihuahua up in a sweater on non-winter months, make sure it’s relatively thin and not too constricting. You don’t want to force them to wear a thick sweater that’s only going to trap too much of their body heat when it’s still warm outside, as this may cause them to overheat. Instead, look for a soft, thin sweater that’s breathable and not constricting.
If you’re looking to add a hoodie to your Chihuahua’s outfit collection, you’ve come to the right place! Here you’ll find one of the largest selections of traditional Chihuahua hoodies and hooded shirts for sale. Some of them are basic and designed with a single color, while others are more complex with ruffles and unique designs.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
Hoodies are arguably one of the most versatile articles of clothing you can purchase for a Chihuahua. Whether it’s summer, winter or any season in between, hoodies can be worn year-round. The addition of a hood is a neat little accessory that can be tossed over your Chihuahua’s head to provide an extra layer of warmth and comfort. When the temperatures begin to start rising, you can take the hood back off to keep them cool. Of course, this is just one of the reasons why they are such a popular choice of clothing for Chihuahuas and other small dogs.
What Are Hoodies Exactly?
Chihuahua hoodies aren’t as common as shirts or sweaters; therefore, some people don’t know what they are exactly. If you’ve never heard of them before, let me give you a quick explanation – basically, hoodies are shirts or sweaters with a hood attached to the top. The concept of a Chihuahua hoodie is pretty much the same as hoodies that we wear.
Depending on how it’s made, you can usually pull the hood off and on with ease, giving it an even greater level of versatility over other types of Chihuahua clothes. When the temperatures are cold in the morning and you have to take your Chihuahua outside to do their “business,” you can pull the hood over their head to help keep them warm. However, once the sun starts poking through and begins to warm up the air, you can take the hood back off.
Things To Look For In a Chihuahua Hoodie
Need a little help choosing a hoodie for your Chihuahua? With so many different styles, sizes and types available, narrowing your selection down to one can prove to be a challenge, especially if this is this their first one. While it ultimately boils down to your own personal preference, here are some of the things to look for in a Chihuahua hoodie:
Obviously, you’ll want to choose a hoodie that’s going to fit properly on your Chihuahua. Like all pet clothes, Chihuahua hoodies come in a wide variety of sizes to fit any type of Chihuahua, regardless of how big or small they are. Make sure any hoodie you purchase is designed to fit your Chihuahua’s size.
Pay close attention to the weight and overall thickness of any hoodie you’re thinking of purchasing. If you plan on dressing your Chihuahua up in a hoodie during the semi-warm summer and spring months, it’s a good idea to choose a lighter, thinner hoodie. On the other hand, thicker hoodies tend to work better and offer more warmth during the winter.
When shopping for a new Chihuahua hoodie, take note of how it goes on their body. Because there are so many different manufacturers who produce them, some hoodies go on in different ways. Unless you want to spend 10 minutes trying to force it on their body, you’ll want to choose one that’s simple and easy to get on; otherwise, it will probably end up sitting unused in their wardrobe.
The color, design and style of a hoodie is also something that’s worth taking note of. After all, you want your Chihuahua to look their best in their cute new outfit, so take the time to choose a hoodie that compliments their look.
Last but not least, you need to consider the price of a Chihuahua hoodie. Some of the so-called “boutique” pet stores may try to rip you off by jacking up the price of their hoodies for $30, $40 or even $50 bucks a piece. The truth is that no hoodie should cost this much, which is why the ones listed on our site are generally much more affordable.
Tips on Using Chihuahua Hoodies
One of the great things about Chihuahua hoodies is their sheer versatility. Whether it’s hot, cold or anywhere in between, hoodies can be successfully worn as long you follow some basic guidelines. I can’t stress just how important choosing the right size hoodie is for your Chihuahua. Even if it’s just a size or two bigger than what they need, that extra fabric may rub on their body, causing sores and discomfort. On the other hand, hoodies that are too small can be equally as uncomfortable simply because they are constricting and limit their movement.
It’s not uncommon for some Chihuahuas to be hesitant of wearing hoodies or other types of clothes at first. They may shake nervously or even try to hide in their crate. Even though dressing them up properly doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort, it’s still something they aren’t familiar with, and that’s all it takes to make a Chihuahua nervous. However, you can help calm them down by talking calmly to them, petting them and giving them a treat. As long you bring all of these elements together when dressing your Chihuahua up in a hoodie, they should quickly grow to love their new hoodie.
If you’re thinking about adding a Chihuahua to your family, you might be wondering whether they are high maintenance. Raising any dog requires a lot of hard work. Some breeds, though, are more demanding than others. So, are Chihuahuas high maintenance?
What Is a High-Maintenance Breed?
High-maintenance breeds are those that require more time, energy, money and effort to raise than other breeds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently recognizes about 200 dog breeds, whereas the International Canine Federation (FCI) recognizes nearly twice as many breeds.
Each breed is unique. Beagles, for instance, are known for their floppy ears and high energy levels. They were originally bred for hare hunting in 16th-century England, so they need more exercise than non-hunting breeds. Bulldogs, on the other hand, have short faces that predispose them to a myriad of medical conditions, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and allergic rhinitis. Bulldogs also have lots of skin folds that must be cleaned regularly.
All breeds require some work to raise, but high-maintenance breeds come out on top. When compared to other breeds, they need more exercise, trips to the veterinarian, grooming, home adjustments, special diets and more. Unless you’re willing to meet their taxing demands, you shouldn’t get a high-maintenance breed.
Chihuahuas Are Not High Maintenance
Chihuahuas aren’t high maintenance. Raising a Chihuahua is undoubtedly a lot of work, but there are plenty of other, more demanding breeds out there.
Breeds that are considered high maintenance include:
Afghan Hound
Akita
Bichon Frise
Border Collie
Boxer
Brussels Griffon
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chow Chow
Cocker Spaniel
Dalmatian
English Bulldog
English Springer Spaniel
French Bulldog
German Shepherd
Golden Retriever
Great Dane
Irish Setter
Newfoundland
Pomeranian
Poodle (Standard, Miniature, and Toy)
Saint Bernard
Samoyed
Shar-Pei
Shih Tzu
Siberian Husky
Weimaraner
Yorkshire Terrier
Maintenance Requirements for Chihuahuas
By familiarizing yourself with the breed’s maintenance requirements, you can decide whether a Chihuahua is right for you and your family. Chihuahuas aren’t high maintenance, but they do have maintenance requirements. Your Chihuahua’s health and happiness are dependent upon you meeting these requirements.
Energy: Medium Maintenance
Chihuahuas have medium energy requirements. Many of them love to play fetch and tug-of-war. Other Chihuahuas will run around in circles fast — a phenomenon known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs) or simply the “zoomies.”
While Chihuahuas have higher energy levels than many other breeds, their exercise demands are easily met. You don’t need a large backyard. Because they are so small, Chihuahuas can run and play in small areas. You can chase your Chihuahua around in the living room, or you can take him for a short walk around the neighborhood. A half-hour of exercise per day should suffice for most Chihuahuas.
Grooming: Medium Maintenance
Chihuahuas require a moderate amount of grooming. You’ll need to brush your Chihuahua’s coat at least once a day to remove tangles and knots. If he has a long coat, you may need to brush his coat twice a day. Long-coat Chihuahuas have longer hair than smooth-coat Chihuahuas, so they are more susceptible to tangles and knots.
You’ll need to brush your Chihuahua’s teeth a couple of times per week to promote good oral hygiene. It will remove plaque that, if left unchecked, can turn into tartar. Plaque and tartar buildup may then place your Chihuahua at risk for periodontal disease, tooth decay and tooth loss.
Nail trimming is an important grooming process. Your Chihuahua may snag his nails on rugs, furniture or the carpet if they are too long. Long nails can also become ingrown Trimming your Chihuahua’s nails once every three to four weeks will prevent problems such as these.
You’ll need to bathe your Chihuahua as well. Even if he looks clean, your Chihuahua is probably harboring debris in his coat. Bathing him at least once every few weeks will remove dirt, dander and other forms of debris that could otherwise irritate his skin.
Health: Medium Maintenance
While they have one of the longest lifespans of all breeds, Chihuahuas aren’t immune to health problems. They are susceptible to a variety of diseases and conditions. Many Chihuahuas experience reverse sneezing episodes. This all-too-common respiratory condition involves spasms of the soft palate in a Chihuahua’s mouth, which causes him to rapidly inhale air while creating a wheeze or “goose-honking” sound.
Chihuahuas are susceptible to patellar luxation. It’s an orthopedic condition that involves the kneecap (the patella) slipping out of the groove in the femur. Patellar luxation may affect one or both of the Chihuahua’s hind legs. Chihuahuas suffering from patellar luxation will often hold up or “favor” the affected leg or legs.
Other common health problems in Chihuahuas include tracheal collapse, heart disease, hypoglycemia, seizures and hydrocephalus. Even with a predisposition to these diseases and conditions, though, Chihuahuas are still generally healthy.
Diet: Medium Requirements
Chihuahuas have special dietary needs. You don’t need to necessarily feed your Chihuahua homemade meals, but you should feed him a kibble that’s formulated specifically for small dogs. Small dog kibble is smaller in size than standard kibble. Some Chihuahuas may struggle to bite and chew standard kibble, but the compact size of small dog kibble offers a solution.
Both standard kibble and small dog kibble contain three primary ingredients: protein, fat and carbohydrates. Small dog kibble, however, contains a higher concentration of protein and fat to carbohydrates. This calorie-dense formula allows for longer-lasting, more sustainable energy in Chihuahuas and other small dogs.
Potty Training: Medium
Chihuahuas have earned a reputation for being difficult to potty train, but this reputation may not be entirely deserved. Chihuahuas are sneaky. Because of their small size, they can sneak off to another area of the home to use the bathroom undetected.
After urinating in a particular spot, they may return to it. The urine of Chihuahuas and other dogs contains territory-marking enzymes. Chihuahuas can smell areas where they’ve urinated. A Chihuahua may sneak off initially to use the bathroom in an unoccupied room, and because of the enzymes he leaves behind, the Chihuahua will continue urinating in that same room.
Potty training is a hands-on activity. You can’t expect your Chihuahua to learn to use the bathroom outdoors unless you teach him. If you allow him to sneak off when nature calls, he will continue to use the bathrooms in your home. The lingering enzymes will attract him to that area of your home.
Here are some tips for a smoother and more effective potty-training regimen:
Begin potty-training your Chihuahua at an early age, preferably between the ages of 12 and 16 weeks.
Focus on reward-based potty-training in which you reward your Chihuahua with a treat and praise for using the bathroom. Punishment-based training is ineffective at best and counterproductive at worst.
Confine your Chihuahua to a crate when you leave home. Most Chihuahuas enjoy being in their crate, as it offers them a sense of security. And as long as the crate isn’t too big, they typically won’t go the bathroom in it.
When returning home, immediately take your Chihuahua out to use the bathroom.
Use a verbal command like “go potty” or “go pee pee.” Over time, your Chihuahua will associate this command with the action of going to the bathroom.
Choose a specific spot in your yard for your Chihuahua to use the bathroom.
Establish a routine that involves taking your Chihuahua out to use the bathroom at regular intervals throughout the day.
Cold and Heat Sensitivity: High
Chihuahuas are sensitive to cold and heat. Their small bodies allow them to quickly lose and gain heat in response to temperature changes in their surrounding environment. In cold weather, they’ll quickly lose body heat. In hot weather, they’ll quickly gain body heat. As an owner, you must take precautions to protect your Chihuahua from cold and hot weather.
You can protect your Chihuahua from cold weather by dressing him in clothes. Clothes offer a form of thermal insulation. A thick shirt or sweater will insulate your Chihuahua from the cold weather. Make sure your Chihuahua has warm bedding as well. Chihuahuas will often burrow under blankets and linens to stay warm.
You can protect your Chihuahua from hot summer weather by limiting his time spent outdoors during the midday sun. The sun is the hottest at around 3:00 p.m. Therefore, planning outdoor activities earlier or later in the day will help to protect your Chihuahua from heat exhaustion. You should also provide your Chihuahua with easily accessible water. Hydration is essential to protecting against heat exhaustion during the summer.
Mental Stimulation: Medium Maintenance
Chihuahuas require a moderate amount of mental stimulation. It promotes healthy cognitive function while warding off dementia and anxiety in the process.
Mental stimulation may even keep your Chihuahua happy. When bored, Chihuahuas can become depressed, or they may develop behavior problems. Mental stimulation forces Chihuahuas to use their brain, so they won’t become bored. Chihuahuas don’t need as much mental stimulation as purpose-bred dogs, but they still require a moderate amount.
Here are some mental stimulation activities to consider for your Chihuahua:
Give your Chihuahua a hidden treat puzzle toy to play with. These toys are designed to encourage Chihuahuas and other dogs to solve a puzzle so that they can access a treat.
In addition to hidden treat puzzle toys, you can hide treats around your home. Your Chihuahua will then have to his scent of smell to find the treats.
Teach your Chihuahua a new trick, such as how to shake paws or how to sit.
Take your Chihuahua for walks in unfamiliar areas, such as a park or hiking trail.
Assign a name for your Chihuahua’s favorite toy. Try to teach your Chihuahua this name while he’s playing with it.
Set up an agility course for your Chihuahua. Agility courses are obstacles that require a combination of physical and mental aptitude to complete.
In Conclusion
Chihuahuas aren’t high maintenance. Based on their energy, health, grooming, diet, potty-training, sensitivity to cold and heat and mental stimulation requirements, they are better classified as medium maintenance.
Do you think Chihuahuas are high maintenance? Let us know in the comments section below!
Chihuahua shirts are undoubtedly popular. They come in countless different styles and designs with practically any graphic, phrase or logo you can think of. Whether you want to go with a basic shirt featuring a single color or a more detailed one with rhinestones or some other flashy design is up to you. Just remember to choose a shirt that’s designed to fit your Chihuahua’s size body. Just like our shirts come in different sizes, so do Chihuahuas, and it’s important to only choose a shirt that fits them properly.
*As an Amazon Associate, Chihuahua Wardrobe earns from qualifying purchases.
How To Choose a Chihuahua Shirt
If this is your first time shopping for a Chihuahua shirt, it’s easy to feel lost and confused. After all, most of us have trouble buying shirts for ourselves, so trying to buy one for a Chihuahua is going to be equally if not more difficult. You have to not only make sure it fit rights, but that it also looks cute enough so that you’ll actually dress them up in it. Far too many owners purchase shirts and other clothes for their Chihuahuas and then later realize they don’t look good on them. The fact is that you probably won’t dress them up in a shirt if it doesn’t look good on them.
Before you even think about what style of shirt your Chihuahua will look good in, you should narrow your selection down to comfortable choices. Even small imperfections such as stitches or seams that protrude out can cause a lot of discomfort when worn by a Chihuahua. If you’re purchasing a shirt in person, take a minute to feel the material and determine whether or not it will be comfortable. 100% cotton shirts and cotton wool blends are generally the most comfortable materials around. However, polyester shirts with a soft interior lining can also prove to be quite comfortable.
Does It Fit?
Chihuahuas can range in size from as small as 2 pounds or as heavy as 10 or more. Although the (American Kennel Club) AKC standards state that Chihuahuas must weigh less than 6 pounds, the fact is that many of them are much heavier; therefore, some shirts may not fit them as well. Unless you want them to look like a clothes hanger, you must choose a shirt that fits them properly.
So, how do you know whether or not a shirt will fit your Chihuahua without dressing them up in it beforehand? The truth is that sometimes it’s easier, while other times it’s more difficult. Read the description of any shirt you’re considering purchasing for your Chihuahua to see if the manufacturer has size specifications listed. Depending on who manufactured the shirt, they may include sizing information for it. For instance, some of the smaller shirts may be designed to fit Chihuahuas weighing up to 2 pounds, while other shirts may fit Chihuahuas weighing 4-6 pounds. Of course there are also shirts that are “one size fits all.” These shirts are usually made with a soft, flexible cotton that has some give in it. Remember, though, there’s no such thing as a TRUE one size fits all shirt, so don’t be fooled by this labeling.
Popular Types of Chihuahua Shirts
If you’re still having trouble finding a shirt for your Chihuahua, you should consider some of the following types of shirts:
Graphic t-shirts with cute sayings or phrases on them.
Shirts with rhinestones or other small accents.
Plain striped cotton shirts.
Pink shirts featuring ruffles or frayed ends.
Hopefully the suggestions listed above will spark some ideas in your mind on what shirt you should choose for your Chihuahua. Remember, ideally, you want a shirt that’s going to express your Chihuahua’s personality. If they’re a feisty little ankle-biter, a shirt with a skull and crossbones will fit their personality perfectly. On the other hand, a cute pink shirt will likely fit a pampered female Chihuahua the best.
Chihuahua Shirt Care and Maintenance
Caring and maintaining Chihuahua shirts is a bit different than traditional people’s clothes. If you intend on making them last for several years, you should familiarize yourself with the proper methods for caring for your Chihuahua’s shirts. Only then will you be able to make them look as pristine as they did when you first bought them.
Unlike most of our clothes, Chihuahua shirts don’t need to be washed immediately after wearing them. In fact, washing them too much may actually damage some of the shirts out there by unraveling loose thread. Depending on the activity levels of your Chihuahua and where the environment where they play, you can usually get by with washing it once every 10 wears. When you’re ready to wash it, place it in the washing machine along with any other Chihuahua clothes that are dirty and run it with warm water and a bit of detergent.
Some Chihuahua shirts have specific washing instructions printed inside the label. Before placing any shirts in the washing machine, check to see if there’s a label inside the collar, as this will tell you what the best and safest method for washing is.
As with any breed, a Chihuahua’s lifespan varies depending on a number of different factors (see below for a complete list). Some of these factors are controllable, whereas others are outside of owners’ control. Owners should familiarize themselves with these factors so they give their Chihuahua the longest, fullest life possible.
There’s no fool-proof method for predicting exactly how long they can live, but current data suggests that Chihuahuas live an average of 15 to 20 years when properly cared for by a loving owner.
Small breeds like the Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier live longer than medium-to-large breeds like the Labrador Retriever and Mastiff. Medium-to-large breeds have an average life expectancy of 10 to 13 years.
Does this mean all Chihuahuas live between 15 and 20 years? Not necessarily, but this is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Factors That Impact a Chihuahua’s Lifespan:
Diet – a Chihuahua’s diet will directly impact their lifespan. Owners should feed their furry four-legged friends a nutritious, well-balanced premium dog food with no fillers, preservatives or artificial flavors. Avoid the temptation of feeding your Chihuahua leftover dinner scraps, as this can lead to obesity, toxicosis and other health problems.
Weight – equally as influential in a Chihuahua’s lifespan is weight. Obese Chihuahuas are prone to a variety of adverse health conditions that may lower their average lifespan, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Underweight Chis may also experience a lower average lifespan due to malnutrition and a weakened immune system.
Healthcare – it should come as no surprise that healthcare plays a role in a Chihuahua’s lifespan as well. Taking them to the veterinarian for routine checkups will promote a long, healthy life by diagnosing illnesses early, before they progress to life-threatening ailments. Most veterinarians recommend taking adult Chihuahuas between the ages of 7 and 10 for a wellness check once a year. If you have senior Chihuahua over the age of 10, however, you should take them for a wellness check twice a year.
Genetics – “good genes” can lengthen a Chihuahua’s lifespan, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to a pup’s parents if you’re looking to adopt. If the parents are healthy, energetic and happy, their pups are more likely to live a long and healthy life.
Spaying/neutering – Chihuahuas that are spayed and neutered tend to live longer than those that aren’t fixed. Neutering a male Chi before the age of year will decrease their risk of developing testicular and prostate cancers, and fixing female Chis before their first heat cycle can reduce their risk of developing uterine and ovarian cancers. Of course, there are other health benefits associated with spaying and neutering a Chihuahua, such as lowered aggression levels, reduced risk of running away, and fewer pups ending up in the pound.
Vaccinations – Chihuahuas require vaccinations and follow-up booster shots to protect against potentially life-threatening diseases like the parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella bronchiseptica (kennel cough), canine influenza, distemper and rabies.
Oral Care – like most small breeds, Chihuahuas are prone to dental problems like tooth decay, tooth toss and gum disease. Some studies suggest that as many as 9 out of 10 Chihuahuas will experience dental problems. Allowing your Chihuahua to suffer from poor oral health can reduce their lifespan. Bacteria enters the bloodstream through bleeding gums (caused by gingivitis) and goes straight to the heart and kidneys.
Gender – statistically speaking, females live longer than their male counterparts. The exact cause of this longer average lifespan is unknown, but studies suggest female Chihuahuas live 1 to 2 years longer than males.
Activity Levels – keeping your Chihuahua active is crucial to promoting a long, healthy life. Whether it’s playing fetch, tug-of-war (with a toy, of course), or going for a walk around the neighborhood, give your Chi plenty of daily exercise. Doing so will burn excess fat, build muscle, strengthen their immune system and ward off illness, which can increase their average lifespan.
The World’s Oldest Chihuahua
The world’s oldest Chihuahua on record (keyword being on record) is Megabyte, who passed away on January 1, 2014, at the age of 20 years and 265 days. Other than the occasional news article and blog posts, details are scarce about Megabyte’s life; however, we know this full-bred Chihuahua lived 20 full years before passing away on New Year’s Day, 2014.
There have been several reports of Chihuahuas living to 20, 21 and even 22 years of age. These reports were never verified, and thus Megabyte retains his title as the world’s oldest Chihuahua.
Chihuahua Age In Human Years and Dog Years
Age In Human Years
Age In Dog Years
1
15
2
21
3
25
4
29
5
33
6
37
7
41
8
45
9
49
10
53
11
57
12
61
13
65
14
69
15
73
16
77
17
81
18
85
19
89
20
93
21
97
22
101
23
105
24
109
25
113
*This chart can be used for all dogs under 20 pounds.
Merle Chihuahuas are adorned for their unique appearance. Some of them have a long coat, whereas others have a smooth coat. All merle Chihuahuas, however, feature a colorful merle coat that distinguishes them from other Chihuahuas, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding their characteristics. What is a merle Chihuahua exactly, and how do they differ from other, non-merle Chihuahuas?
What Is a Merle Chihuahua?
A merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with a coat pattern consisting of irregular patches of one or more dark colors on a light-colored base. Known as a merle or dapple pattern, it’s the result of genetics. Chihuahuas, as well as other select breeds (see below), can be born with the merle gene. Chihuahuas born with this genetic abnormality have a merle coat.
Overview of the Merle Gene
Somewhere in the canine kingdom many centuries ago, a mutation occurred that paved the way for the merle pattern. Merle allele (M) is the gene that’s responsible for the merle pattern in Chihuahuas and other breeds. It’s a mutation of the non-merle allele (m) gene.
Alleles are different versions of a given gene. Some genes come in different forms. There’s the merle allele and the non-merle allele, for instance, the former of which is responsible for the merle pattern.
The merle allele is an incompletely dominant gene, whereas the non-merle allele is a recessive gene. As an incompletely dominant gene, the merle allele doesn’t override its recessive counterpart entirely. Both genes will be partially expressed when paired together, with the merle gene being the most predominant.
Like humans, Chihuahuas are born with pairs of genes. They inherit one gene from each parent. All merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype. They inherit the merle gene from one parent and the recessive allele from the other parent, resulting in the Mm genotype (except in the case of double merles as explained below).
While working in Dr. Keith Murphy’s Canine Genetics Laboratory at the flagship university in 2006, a team of geneticists and students discovered the merle gene. They found that merle Shelties — the breed studied during the project — had extra DNA tacked onto their PMEL17 or “SILV” gene.
The PMEL17 gene affects pigmentation. When researching merle Shelties, the team identified a SINE insertion involving extra DNA within this pigment-defining gene. The merle Shelties, in other words, had a genetic mutation consisting of the merle gene. Merle Chihuahuas and other merle dogs exhibit this same genetic mutation.
The Breeding of Merle and Non-Merle Chihuahuas
The presence of the merle gene in a sire or dam will determine whether their offspring will be merles. Chihuahua puppies can only be born with the merle gene if at least one of their parents has the merle gene.
Non-merle x non-merle parents = the entire litter will consist of non-merle Chihuahua puppies.
Merle x non-merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles and half will be non-merles.
Merle x merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles, one-quarter will be non-merles and one-quarter will be double merles.
The merle gene can’t be “carried” by skipping a generation, only to appear in a later generation of puppies. Chihuahuas are either born with it or without it.
The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment within the Chihuahua’s coat. The color or colors of a Chihuahua’s coat is governed by two pigments: eumelanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin governs black in a Chihuahua’s coat, and phaeomelanin governs red in a Chihuahua’s coat. Even with just these two pigments, Chihuahuas can have a wide variety of coat colors.
The merle gene specifically affects the distribution of eumelanin, which controls the black color in a Chihuahua’s coat. It essentially dilutes areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin, resulting in irregular patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base.
Merle Chihuahuas can further be classified as blue or red depending on the particular shade of their dark-colored fur. Blue merles — the most common type — have patches of black fur. Red merles, in comparison, have patches of brown or copper-colored fur. They are genetically different, but they both have the merle gene.
The Chihuahua isn’t the only breed that can be born with the merle gene. Other breeds include:
American Bully
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Shepherd
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Beauceron
Border Collie
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Chinese Crested
Collie (rough and smooth)
Dachshund (long-haired and wire-haired)
Dalmatian
Finnish Lapphund
Great Dane
Harlequin Pinscher
Norwegian Elkhound
Pomeranian
Pyrenean Shepherd
Rat Terrier
Schipperke
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Silken Windhound
Whippet
How Do Merle Chihuahuas Differ From Other Chihuahuas?
Merle Chihuahuas are easily distinguished from other Chihuahuas by their coat. They feature a unique coat pattern consisting of irregular patches or blotches of dark-colored fur, such as black or brown, on a light-colored base. Aside from their coat pattern, though, merle Chihuahuas differ from non-merles in other ways.
The merle gene can affect the color of a Chihuahua’s eyes and skin. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to have blue eyes than non-merles. Blue eyes, of course, are common in all newborn Chihuahuas. Non-merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes as well, but their eyes will begin to change to a different, permanent color within the next two to four months. Merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes that don’t change color.
Some merle Chihuahuas have two blue eyes, but others only have a single blue eye. Regardless, blue eyes are a common feature of merle Chihuahuas.
Merle Chihuahuas also commonly have pink mottling on their paw pads and nose. The merle gene affects the distribution of eumelanin throughout the coat, skin and eyes, resulting in these nuances in appearance.
There are certain health problems that are more common in merle Chihuahuas, such as hearing loss. One study found that 4.6% of merle dogs were deaf, with double merles having an even greater rate of deafness. Blindness is another health problem to which merle Chihuahuas are susceptible. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to suffer from congenital eye defects that impair their vision than non-merles.
What Is a Double Merle Chihuahua?
A double merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with the MM genotype. Standard merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype in which they inherit the merle gene from one parent and the non-merle allele from the other parent. Double merles inherit a copy of the merle gene from each parent, resulting in the MM genotype.
Double merle Chihuahuas don’t have the same characteristic coat pattern as standard merles. They typically feature smaller and fewer patches of dark-colored fur, and they feature a lighter base color than that of standard merles.
Each copy of the merle gene dilutes the eumelanin in the Chihuahua’s coat. Standard merle Chihuahuas only have a single copy of the gene, but double merles have two copies. With two copies of the merle gene, double merle Chihuahuas have lighter coats. Some double merle Chihuahuas are nearly entirely white except for a few small patches of dark-colored fur.
Double merle Chihuahuas have an even greater risk of health problems than standard merles. The aforementioned study, for example, found that 10% of double merle dogs were unilaterally deaf and 15% were bilaterally deaf.
Common health problems in merle Chihuahuas include:
Deafness
Microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes)
Blindness
Canine follicular dysplasia (hair loss)
Skin cancer
Because of the health problems with which they are associated, breeding double merles is considered unethical. It’s a universally condemned practice — and for good reason. Breeders who intentionally breed double merles expose their puppies to many severe health problems, which can be passed down to future generations. Standard merles have a slightly higher risk of health problems than non-merles, but the risk is substantially higher with double merles.
What Is a Cryptic Merle Chihuahua?
In addition to double merles, there are cryptic merle Chihuahuas. Also known as phantom merles, they have the merle gene but exhibit little or no merle pattern in their coat. Many owners assume they have a non-merle Chihuahua when they actually have a cryptic merle.
Cryptic merle Chihuahuas possess other genetic modifiers that mask the coat-lightening effects of the merle gene. They may have two copies of the recessive red allele, for instance. Chihuahuas with this genotype won’t produce any black fur. The recessive red alleles restrict their coat color to red and shades thereof.
The merle gene only affects areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin. Chihuahuas with two recessive red alleles have phaeomelanin-pigmented coats; they don’t have eumelanin in their coats, so the merle gene doesn’t show up in their coats. Cryptic merle Chihuahuas still have the merle gene, and they may pink blue eyes and pink mottling on their paw pads and nose, but they don’t have the same coat pattern as standard merles.
Are Merle Chihuahuas Allowed to Compete in the Show Ring?
It’s a common misconception that merle Chihuahuas are prohibited from competing in the show ring. Many canine organizations do, in fact, view the merle gene as a fault. They prohibit owners from registering and competing their merle Chihuahuas in the show ring.
In 2007, The Kennel Club (TKC) banned the registration of merle Chihuahuas. Just a few years later, it banned the registration of all Chihuahuas that are the offspring of a merle sire or dam. Even if a Chihuahua doesn’t have a merle coat, it can’t be registered with the United Kingdom’s official canine organization if one or both of his parents are merles. Other non-U.S. canine organizations have implemented their own bans, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) allows merle Chihuahuas to compete in the show ring.
The Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), the AKC’s official parent club of the Chihuahua, voted against the TKC’s disqualification of merle Chihuahuas. The AKC has since added merle as one of the breed’s standard markings. Therefore, you can register your merle Chihuahua with the AKC, and you can compete him in the show ring. The registration requirements for merle Chihuahuas, however, are more stringent than those for non-merles.
DNA Testing Kits for Merle Chihuahuas
Think your Chihuahua might have the merle gene? You may want to order a DNA testing kit. You can’t rely on appearance alone to determine if your Chihuahua has the merle gene. There are cryptic merle Chihuahuas that look like non-merles. With a DNA testing kit, you can check your Chihuahua’s genotype to determine whether he’s a merle.
Many breeders use DNA testing kits to ensure that they don’t accidentally breed double merles. Breeding a merle sire to a merle dam may result in double merles in the litter. Rather than relying strictly on the appearance of the sire’s and dam’s coats, breeders can use a DNA testing kit. The DNA testing kit will reveal the exact genotype, such as mm, Mm or MM. If the merle gene is present in both the merle and dam, they shouldn’t be bred.
Even if you have no intentions of breeding your Chihuahua, you may still want to use a DNA testing kit. It will provide you with insight into your canine companion’s genetic makeup. You just need to swab your Chihuahua’s mouth for a DNA sample, after which you can mail it to a laboratory for analysis. The company from which you purchased the kit will provide you with a detailed report about your Chihuahua’s genotype.
Here are some of the top DNA testing kits for merles:
Embark
University of California, Davis
Paw Print Genetics
In Conclusion
Merle is a genetic pattern found in dozens of dog breeds, one of which is the Chihuahua. It’s characterized by a mottled coat with patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigments and can result in a wide range of beautiful coat patterns, including the blue merle patter and the red merle pattern. While merle is not exclusive to Chihuahuas, it adds a distinctive charm to this already captivating breed.
Does your Chihuahua follow you around the house, demanding to be in your lap or by your side 24 hours a day? A behavioral trait known as clinginess, it’s common in the breed.
Clingy Chihuahuas cross the metaphorical line that separates loyalty and obsession. They feel like they must be near their owner at all times. Clingy Chihuahuas will follow their owner wherever he or she goes, even to the bathroom. If this sounds familiar, you might be wondering why Chihuahuas are so clingy.
What Does Clinginess Mean?
Clinginess is a behavior characterized by a strong desire to be physically close to a person. Merriam-Webster defines it as the tendency to “stay very close to someone, such as a parent, for emotional support, protection, etc.”
There are clingy people, and there are clingy dogs. Children may cling to a parent, whereas dogs may cling to their owner. In both scenarios, the clingy child or dog will feel the need to be physically near someone. They will follow that person around wherever he or she goes.
Clingy dogs are colloquially known as velcro dogs. This is a direct reference to the popular brand of hook-and-loop fasteners. Hook-and-loop fasteners consist of a strip of hooks and a strip of loops. When pressed together, the hooks will catch the loops, thereby holding the two strips together. A clingy dog is essentially the strip of hooks, and the person to whom he clings is the strip of loops. The clingy dog will stay attached to that person at the hip.
Clinginess vs Separation Anxiety in Chihuahuas
Clinginess and separation anxiety are two common types of behaviors in Chihuahuas. Some Chihuahuas have separation anxiety. Others are clingy. There are even Chihuahuas that exhibit both behaviors. While they both involve an attachment to a person, however, clinginess and separation anxiety aren’t the same.
Clinginess only involves a strong desire to be near a person. Clingy Chihuahuas want to be near that person, typically their owner, all the time. Separation anxiety is similar but with the added element of anxiety during periods of separation.
If a Chihuahua has separation anxiety, he will become emotionally distraught when separated from his owner. The Chihuahua will panic and become anxious. When his owner returns, the Chihuahua’s anxiety will subside.
Clingy Chihuahuas don’t become emotionally distraught during periods of separation. They still want to be near their owner — just like Chihuahuas with separation anxiety — but clingy Chihuahuas won’t panic and become anxious when separated. They will accept their temporary isolation without acting out and exhibiting signs of anxiety.
Chihuahuas with separation anxiety may exhibit the following signs when left alone or separated from their owner:
Barking, howling or whining
Scratching at doors
Shaking
House soiling
Excessive panting
Pacing or restlessness
Loss of appetite
Chewing furniture, shoes, pillows or other accessible objects
Overreacting to departures and arrivals
Do Chihuahuas Cling to a Single Person?
Most Chihuahuas cling to a single person. They don’t outright reject other people. After clinging to someone, Chihuahuas may show affection and loyalty toward other people, such as other family members who regularly play with them and pet sitters who regularly care for them. Nonetheless, Chihuahuas typically only cling to a single person.
Chihuahuas will often cling to the person on whom they imprint. Imprinting is a learning-related bonding process that begins during puppyhood. Puppies will choose a person — or another animal like their mother or a littermate if they are in the wild — who they trust to teach them new things. Puppies will imprint on this person, allowing that person to guide them through the world.
Most puppies imprint on the primary provider of food, comfort, affection and safety. In a domestic setting, this is typically the owner who spends the most time with the puppy. As adults, Chihuahuas will continue to follow the person on whom they imprint.
Some Chihuahuas may cling to multiple people, but most cling to a single person: the person on whom they imprint. They will develop a stronger bond with this person, preferring to follow this person over everyone else in the house.
Chihuahuas have earned a reputation for being clingy. After imprinting on a person with whom they are particularly close, they will follow that person around. Here are some of the most common reasons Chihuahuas are so clingy.
#1) Companion Dog Origins
The Chihuahua’s origins as a companion dog may play a role in its clinginess. There are hundreds of breeds recognized by major kennel organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC), but nearly all of them fall under one of two categories based on their purpose:
Working dog
Companion dog
Working dogs consist of breeds that were originally used to perform practical tasks on behalf of their owner or handler. Bloodhounds, for instance, were originally used for scent detection. With roughly 300 million olfactory receptors, they can track wild game, as well as people, better than other breeds.
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred for personal protection. In the late 1800s, German tax collector Louis Dobermann began crossing breeds, such as the Rottweiler and German Pinscher, to create a new, more protective breed.
Unlike Bloodhounds and Doberman Pinschers, Chihuahuas aren’t working dogs; they are companion dogs. Chihuahuas were originally used, and are still used, for companionship. Chihuahuas keep their owner company, providing unconditional love and loyalty to their human counterparts. Their companion dog origins predispose Chihuahuas to clinginess.
#2) Lapdog Behavior
Chihuahuas can become clingy by spending so much time in their owner’s lap. They are lapdogs. Chihuahuas enjoy lying in their owner’s lap, and they are small enough to do so.
Lying in their owner’s lap is a bonding experience. Chihuahuas will develop a stronger bond with their owner. Over time, this unbreakable bond may manifest in the form of clinginess. When a Chihuahua isn’t able to sit in his owner’s lap, he may follow his owner around — a behavior that’s characteristic of clinginess.
Lapdogs also tend to get in their owner’s face. They may sit on the back of the couch and snuggle against their owner’s neck, or they may lie in their owner’s bed next to his or her head. Being close to their owner’s face promotes a stronger bond. Chihuahuas and other lapdogs have stronger bonds with their owners than larger breeds, which may contribute to their clinginess.
#3) Watchdog Instinct
They may have originally been used for companionship, but Chihuahuas make excellent watchdogs. They have a natural instinct to guard their property and family members from threats. According to a survey published in “The Intelligence of Dogs,” Chihuahuas are the eighth most effective watchdog breed.
Their ability to sound the alarm for potential threats may a role in their clinginess. Chihuahuas are alert, courageous and protective. When they see an unfamiliar person or hear a strange noise, they may bark loudly to let their family members know.
Chihuahuas want to protect their family members from harm. An unfamiliar person could be a burglar trying to break into the home. A strange noise could be an electrical fire. The watchdog instinct in Chihuahuas may compel them to follow their owner, acting as a true guardian and protector.
#4) Boredom
Some Chihuahuas are clingy because they are bored. All dogs need mental and physical stimulation. It allows them to release their pent-up energy while subsequently staving off boredom and its side effects.
Chihuahuas that don’t have an outlet for their energy will become bored. When bored, they may act out by chewing on furniture, destroying pillows or simply making a mess. Other Chihuahuas may cling to their owner when bored. They don’t have anything else to do, so bored Chihuahuas may follow their owner around the house.
#5) Heat Cycle
Female Chihuahuas may become particularly clingy during their heat cycle. Unless spayed, they will typically go into heat two to three times per year. During these heat cycles, female Chihuahuas may become extra needy while demanding their owner’s attention.
Also known as an estrous cycle — not to be confused with the “estrus” stage of this cycle — a heat cycle is a reproductive cycle. Excluding humans, most female mammals have them during their fertile years.
Heat cycles consist of the following four stages:
Proestrus: The Chihuahua’s estrogen levels rise, resulting in swelling of the vulva, bleeding and behavioral changes that make the Chihuahua more receptive to males.
Estrus: Lasting about five to 10 days, this is the breeding stage. The Chihuahua’s luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone levels will increase, and her estrogen levels will decrease. These hormonal changes will compel her to court suitable males.
Diestrus: The Chihuahua will stop seeking courtship during the diestrus stage. If pregnant, her estrogen levels will rise. If not pregnant, the Chihuahua’s hormone levels and behavior will return to normal.
Anestrus: The final stage of a heat cycle, anestrus involves uterus involution. It will last until the Chihuahua’s next heat cycle.
Clinginess usually occurs during the proestrus stage. As the Chihuahua’s body chemistry changes, so will her behavior. She may become snappy, or she may become more affectionate. Chihuahuas that become more affectionate during the proestrus stage may cling to their owner until the estrus or diestrus stage.
#6) Injury or Illness
A Chihuahua’s clinginess may be attributed to an injury or illness. Chihuahuas seek their owner’s attention when they aren’t feeling well. It’s their way of asking for help. Chihuahuas will feel more secure near their own, and they recognize their owner as being their primary caregiver. Depending on what’s wrong with them, their owner may be able to treat the Chihuahua’s injury or illness.
If a Chihuahua is about to have a seizure, he may seek the comfort of his owner. The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) says that roughly one in 100 dogs are epileptic. Chihuahuas, however, have higher rates of epilepsy than most other breeds. During the early stages of a seizure — before the convulsions begin — Chihuahuas may follow their owner.
Chihuahuas may follow their owner if they are suffering from an injury. Maybe a Chihuahua has a torn nail, or perhaps he was stung by a bee. Chihuahuas can perform some basic self-grooming, but they rely on their owners to treat bodily injuries.
Clinginess associated with injuries or illnesses is often accompanied by other symptoms. An injured Chihuahua may limp or “favor” or a particular leg, whereas an ill Chihuahua may be lethargic or have a loss of appetite.
Failure to socialize Chihuahuas at a young age can lead to clinginess. According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Guelph, roughly one-third of new dog owners don’t properly socialize their puppies.
Socialization is the process of exposing a dog to new stimuli, such as places, scents, people and other animals. It helps to prevent behavioral problems. When properly socialized, Chihuahuas will feel comfortable in social scenarios. They will be less likely to cling to their owner and, instead, will happily interact with the people and pets around them.
Here are some tips on how to socialize a Chihuahua:
Begin socializing as soon as possible, preferably while your Chihuahua is still a puppy.
Invite friends and family over to play with your Chihuahua.
Take your Chihuahua to local dog parks.
Take your Chihuahua for walks around the neighborhood.
Take your Chihuahua for car rides.
#8) Emotional Trauma
Emotional trauma is a common cause of clinginess in Chihuahuas. Traumatic events, by definition, are scary. They are incidents that instill fear in Chihuahuas.
Some Chihuahuas are abused during puppyhood. Others are abandoned. After being adopted from an animal shelter, these Chihuahuas may become clingy. They will remember the fear of being abused or abandoned by their previous owner, which may compel them to seek comfort by clinging to their new owner.
Any fear-inducing incident can cause emotional trauma and pave the way for clinginess. A Chihuahua may experience emotional trauma after being attacked by another dog, or he may experience emotional trauma after a professional groomer accidentally cuts his nails too deep.
Traumatic events will trigger a Chihuahua’s fight-or-flight instinct. The Chihuahua will perceive the event as potentially harmful, so he will naturally fear it. He will then become afraid of similar events in the future in an effort to survive.
If the Chihuahua was previously attacked by another dog, he may fear other dogs. If the Chihuahua was abandoned by his previous owner, he may fear being alone. He may not remember the circumstances of the traumatic event, but he will associate it with the feeling of fear. And when the Chihuahua is afraid, he may cling to his owner for comfort.
#9) Old Age
Old age can cause clinginess in Chihuahuas. Small dogs are generally considered seniors at about 10 to 12 years of age, compared to 6 to 8 years of age for large dogs. As they transition from adulthood into seniorhood, their bodies will change. Some of these changes may make them more dependent on their owner.
Senior Chihuahuas may experience vision or hearing loss. They won’t be able to see or hear as well as they did in their younger years, so they’ll cling to their owner for assistance.
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) may cause clinginess in senior Chihuahuas as well. Research shows that it affects 14.2% to 22.5% of all dogs over the age of 8. Also known as canine dementia, CCD involves the age-related slowing or deterioration of cognitive function. It’s essentially the canine version of Alzheimer’s. Senior Chihuahuas with CCD may feel confused or afraid, so they’ll follow their owner.
#10) Young Age
Both old and young Chihuahuas may exhibit clinginess. It’s normal for puppies to cling to their owner. In the wild, puppies rely on their mother and littermates for survival. They stay together in a pack for food, comfort, warmth and protection from predators.
When pulled away from their mother — most puppies are separated from their mother at about 8 weeks of age — puppies will maintain their social instinct. They don’t want to be left alone. Instead, they will instinctively follow other people and animals around them.
Puppies go through three developmental stages: the neonatal stage, the transitional stage and the socialization stage. While puppies may exhibit clinginess during any of these three stages, clinginess is most common during the socialization stage. The socialization stage lasts from 3 to 12 weeks of age. Puppies in the socialization stage are eager to learn, so they’ll often cling to their owner.
#11) Stress
Stress is a common cause of clinginess in Chihuahuas. Stress is a state of mental tension. When Chihuahuas — as well as people for that matter — encounter a potential threat, their bodies will produce more stress hormones. Elevated levels of stress hormones like cortisol will change a Chihuahua’s behavior.
Stress and anxiety go hand in hand. A stressed-out Chihuahua will typically feel anxious, which may compel him to follow his owner. Owners provide a sense of comfort for their four-legged companions. By following his owner, the stressed-out Chihuahua will feel safer and more relaxed.
Loud noises can trigger stress in Chihuahuas. When they hear fireworks or construction work going on outside, Chihuahuas may seek the comfort of their owner. A change in routine can also trigger stress in Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are creatures of habit. Abruptly changing a Chihuahua’s typical day-to-day routine can leave him feeling stressed. Regardless of what triggered his stress, he may cling to his owner for comfort.
#12) Rewards
Chihuahuas may become clingy if they are rewarded for doing so. Chihuahuas repeat behaviors for which they are rewarded. Clinginess is a behavior. If a Chihuahua gets a treat, neck scratches or praise when following his owner, he may continue to follow his owner.
Rewards are the foundation of positive reinforcement training. Owners can train their Chihuahuas to perform tasks, such as going to the bathroom outside, by rewarding them. Most owners don’t intentionally train their Chihuahuas to be clingy, but the result is the same: Chihuahuas that are rewarded for following their owner will be hard-wired to do so.
Rewards work by triggering the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine. When Chihuahuas have high levels of dopamine, they’ll feel happier and calmer.
Consistently rewarding a Chihuahua for performing a task will allow his brain to create an association between the reward and the respective task. The Chihuahua’s brain will want more dopamine, so he will willingly perform the task for which he is typically rewarded. The Chihuahua may continue to use the bathroom outside to get the reward, or he may continue to follow his owner.
#13) Curiosity
Curiosity may compel Chihuahuas to cling to their owner. Chihuahuas are curious creatures by nature. They want to know what’s going on around them, especially in their home. Rather than sitting in their crate or lying in their bed, they may follow their owner.
The curiosity of Chihuahuas can be traced back to their ancestors. From goliath-sized Bullmastiffs to tiny Chihuahuas, all dogs are descendants of wolves. Wolves had to explore their environment to survive in the wild. It allows them to find food, avoid predators and adapt to changing conditions.
Modern-day Chihuahuas no longer need to explore their surroundings to survive, but they still possess this curiosity-driven instinct as their wolf ancestors. Some Chihuahuas will explore on their own. Their social nature, though, means they are more likely to explore in their owner’s presence. A curious Chihuahua may follow his owner from room to room so that he doesn’t miss out on anything.
Other Clingy Breeds
All dogs can be clingy, but some breeds are more likely to exhibit this behavior than others. The Chihuahua is just one of many clingy breeds. What are some other clingy breeds exactly?
In addition to the Chihuahua, other clingy breeds include:
American Eskimo Dog
Bichon Frise
Boston Terrier
Brussels Griffon
Bulldog
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chinese Crested
Cocker Spaniel
Dachshund
French Bulldog
Golden Retriever
Havanese
Italian Greyhound
Japanese Chin
Labrador Retriever
Lhasa Apso
Maltese
Miniature Schnauzer
Papillon
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Pug
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Tibetan Spaniel
Yorkshire Terrier
Notice a pattern with the list of clingy breeds? Most of them are small. Small breeds, including the Chihuahua, are typically more social and have a stronger desire for companionship than larger breeds. This makes small breeds more likely to exhibit clinginess.
Some owners find clinginess to be annoying. They still love their Chihuahuas, but they don’t want their four-legged companions following them around all day long. Clingy Chihuahuas won’t give them any space, so owners won’t have the luxury of privacy.
Clingy Chihuahuas stay right behind their owner. When vacuuming or doing other household chores, owners will have to watch where they step. Owners who aren’t careful may accidentally step on their Chihuahua.
Whether clinginess is a problem often depends on the cause. Clinginess attributed to an injury or illness is a problem. Chihuahuas can’t treat their own injuries and illnesses, so many of them will cling to their owner for help. Owners should seek veterinary care if their Chihuahuas are injured or sick. Neglecting to take them to a veterinarian could result in their condition worsening.
Clinginess attributed to boredom is also a problem. Boredom leads to behavioral problems, such as clinginess, and it can even cause depression. Fortunately, boredom is preventable. Owners can prevent their Chihuahuas from becoming bored by providing them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Clinginess may be a sign of separation anxiety, or it may progress into separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is exactly what it sounds like: a behavioral disorder that involves anxiety-related symptoms when a Chihuahua is separated from his owner.
Chihuahuas with separation anxiety will often cling to their owner. They’ll have an unhealthy attachment to their owner — to the point of becoming anxious when they are left alone. Because of their fear of being left alone, they may follow and cling to their owner.
Even if a Chihuahua is only clingy, he may develop separation anxiety. One study found that “several factors associated with hyperattachment” were significantly associated with separation anxiety in dogs. Hyperattachment is clinginess. For the study, researchers evaluated 200 dogs with separation anxiety. They found that clinginess was a major risk factor for separation anxiety.
How to Make Your Chihuahua Less Clingy
There are several things you can do to make your Chihuahua less clingy. Giving him more exercise, for instance, may prove helpful. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom, which as previously mentioned, is a common cause of clinginess.
To curb his clinginess, take your Chihuahua on at least two walks and give him at least a half-hour of additional exercise per day. Exercise can consist of playing games like tug-of-war, fetch or hide-and-seek. Daily exercise such as this will provide your Chihuahua with physical stimulation and reduce the risk of clingy behavior.
Mental stimulation is equally important in the prevention of clinginess. It will force your Chihuahua to think. Mental stimulation will keep your Chihuahua’s mind sharp while warding off depression, stress, cognitive decline and clinginess.
Here are some ways to provide your Chihuahua with mental stimulation:
Teach your Chihuahua a new trick, such as how to sit or shake paws.
Assign names to your Chihuahua’s toys and train your Chihuahua to recognize them.
Give your Chihuahua a puzzle toy.
Create scent-based scavenger hunts.
Change up your Chihuahua’s environment via socialization.
Enroll your Chihuahua in an obedience class.
You can make your Chihuahua less clingy by socializing him. As your Chihuahua is exposed to new places, scents, people and other animals, he will become more independent. He won’t feel the need to follow you all the time. A well-socialized Chihuahua will feel comfortable being away from his owner.
While socialization is most effective during the socialization stage of a puppy’s life, it’s never too late to socialize a Chihuahua. It may require more treats, but you can socialize your Chihuahua at any age. Just take him to different places where he’s exposed to different stimuli.
Don’t make a big deal out of departures and arrivals. A common mistake owners make when dealing with a clingy Chihuahua is petting and praising them before they leave. They know their Chihuahuas will miss them, so they pamper their four-legged companions before walking out the door. And when they return home, owners may immediately pet and praise their clingy Chihuahua again.
Giving your Chihuahua a little TLC before leaving and after returning home may sound harmless, but it can encourage clinginess. Your Chihuahua will begin to think of departures and arrivals as a “big deal.” so he will follow you. Rather than giving him attention immediately before you leave and after you return, ignore him.
Another way to make your Chihuahua less clingy is to desensitize actions that trigger his clinginess. Your Chihuahua may follow you whenever you walk to the refrigerator for a snack, or he may follow you when get your shoes from the closet. Densentiziation is the process of repeating a particular action so that your Chihuahua becomes accustomed to it. If you repeatedly walk to the refrigerator or closet — and you don’t reward or otherwise give your Chihuahua attention when doing so — he may stop following you.
In Conclusion
Chihuahuas make wonderful companions, but many of them are clingy. They follow their owner wherever he or she goes. Some of the top causes of clinginess in Chihuahuas include their companion dog origins, laptop behavior, watchdog instinct, boredom, heat cycle, injury or illness, lack of socialization, emotional trauma, old age, young age, stress, rewards and curiosity.
If clinginess is a problem with your Chihuahua, you can follow the tips listed above to make him less clingy. If it’s not a problem, you can ignore this behavior. Regardless, it’s your responsibility to set boundaries for your Chihuahua.
Merle Chihuahuas are adorned for their unique appearance. Some of them have a long coat, whereas others have a smooth coat. All merle Chihuahuas, however, feature a colorful merle coat that distinguishes them from other Chihuahuas, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding their characteristics. What is a merle Chihuahua exactly, and how do they differ from other, non-merle Chihuahuas?
What Is a Merle Chihuahua?
A merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with a coat pattern consisting of irregular patches of one or more dark colors on a light-colored base. Known as a merle or dapple pattern, it’s the result of genetics. Chihuahuas, as well as other select breeds (see below), can be born with the merle gene. Chihuahuas born with this genetic abnormality have a merle coat.
Overview of the Merle Gene
Somewhere in the canine kingdom many centuries ago, a mutation occurred that paved the way for the merle pattern. Merle allele (M) is the gene that’s responsible for the merle pattern in Chihuahuas and other breeds. It’s a mutation of the non-merle allele (m) gene.
Alleles are different versions of a given gene. Some genes come in different forms. There’s the merle allele and the non-merle allele, for instance, the former of which is responsible for the merle pattern.
The merle allele is an incompletely dominant gene, whereas the non-merle allele is a recessive gene. As an incompletely dominant gene, the merle allele doesn’t override its recessive counterpart entirely. Both genes will be partially expressed when paired together, with the merle gene being the most predominant.
Like humans, Chihuahuas are born with pairs of genes. They inherit one gene from each parent. All merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype. They inherit the merle gene from one parent and the recessive allele from the other parent, resulting in the Mm genotype (except in the case of double merles as explained below).
While working in Dr. Keith Murphy’s Canine Genetics Laboratory at the flagship university in 2006, a team of geneticists and students discovered the merle gene. They found that merle Shelties — the breed studied during the project — had extra DNA tacked onto their PMEL17 or “SILV” gene.
The PMEL17 gene affects pigmentation. When researching merle Shelties, the team identified a SINE insertion involving extra DNA within this pigment-defining gene. The merle Shelties, in other words, had a genetic mutation consisting of the merle gene. Merle Chihuahuas and other merle dogs exhibit this same genetic mutation.
The Breeding of Merle and Non-Merle Chihuahuas
The presence of the merle gene in a sire or dam will determine whether their offspring will be merles. Chihuahua puppies can only be born with the merle gene if at least one of their parents has the merle gene.
Non-merle x non-merle parents = the entire litter will consist of non-merle Chihuahua puppies.
Merle x non-merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles and half will be non-merles.
Merle x merle parents = half of the litter on average will be merles, one-quarter will be non-merles and one-quarter will be double merles.
The merle gene can’t be “carried” by skipping a generation, only to appear in a later generation of puppies. Chihuahuas are either born with it or without it.
The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment within the Chihuahua’s coat. The color or colors of a Chihuahua’s coat is governed by two pigments: eumelanin and phaeomelanin. Eumelanin governs black in a Chihuahua’s coat, and phaeomelanin governs red in a Chihuahua’s coat. Even with just these two pigments, Chihuahuas can have a wide variety of coat colors.
The merle gene specifically affects the distribution of eumelanin, which controls the black color in a Chihuahua’s coat. It essentially dilutes areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin, resulting in irregular patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base.
Merle Chihuahuas can further be classified as blue or red depending on the particular shade of their dark-colored fur. Blue merles — the most common type — have patches of black fur. Red merles, in comparison, have patches of brown or copper-colored fur. They are genetically different, but they both have the merle gene.
The Chihuahua isn’t the only breed that can be born with the merle gene. Other breeds include:
American Bully
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Shepherd
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Beauceron
Border Collie
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Chinese Crested
Collie (rough and smooth)
Dachshund (long-haired and wire-haired)
Dalmatian
Finnish Lapphund
Great Dane
Harlequin Pinscher
Norwegian Elkhound
Pomeranian
Pyrenean Shepherd
Rat Terrier
Schipperke
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Silken Windhound
Whippet
How Do Merle Chihuahuas Differ From Other Chihuahuas?
Merle Chihuahuas are easily distinguished from other Chihuahuas by their coat. They feature a unique coat pattern consisting of irregular patches or blotches of dark-colored fur, such as black or brown, on a light-colored base. Aside from their coat pattern, though, merle Chihuahuas differ from non-merles in other ways.
The merle gene can affect the color of a Chihuahua’s eyes and skin. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to have blue eyes than non-merles. Blue eyes, of course, are common in all newborn Chihuahuas. Non-merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes as well, but their eyes will begin to change to a different, permanent color within the next two to four months. Merle Chihuahuas are often born with blue eyes that don’t change color.
Some merle Chihuahuas have two blue eyes, but others only have a single blue eye. Regardless, blue eyes are a common feature of merle Chihuahuas.
Merle Chihuahuas also commonly have pink mottling on their paw pads and nose. The merle gene affects the distribution of eumelanin throughout the coat, skin and eyes, resulting in these nuances in appearance.
There are certain health problems that are more common in merle Chihuahuas, such as hearing loss. One study found that 4.6% of merle dogs were deaf, with double merles having an even greater rate of deafness. Blindness is another health problem to which merle Chihuahuas are susceptible. Merle Chihuahuas are more likely to suffer from congenital eye defects that impair their vision than non-merles.
What Is a Double Merle Chihuahua?
A double merle Chihuahua is a Chihuahua with the MM genotype. Standard merle Chihuahuas have the Mm genotype in which they inherit the merle gene from one parent and the non-merle allele from the other parent. Double merles inherit a copy of the merle gene from each parent, resulting in the MM genotype.
Double merle Chihuahuas don’t have the same characteristic coat pattern as standard merles. They typically feature smaller and fewer patches of dark-colored fur, and they feature a lighter base color than that of standard merles.
Each copy of the merle gene dilutes the eumelanin in the Chihuahua’s coat. Standard merle Chihuahuas only have a single copy of the gene, but double merles have two copies. With two copies of the merle gene, double merle Chihuahuas have lighter coats. Some double merle Chihuahuas are nearly entirely white except for a few small patches of dark-colored fur.
Double merle Chihuahuas have an even greater risk of health problems than standard merles. The aforementioned study, for example, found that 10% of double merle dogs were unilaterally deaf and 15% were bilaterally deaf.
Common health problems in merle Chihuahuas include:
Deafness
Microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes)
Blindness
Canine follicular dysplasia (hair loss)
Skin cancer
Because of the health problems with which they are associated, breeding double merles is considered unethical. It’s a universally condemned practice — and for good reason. Breeders who intentionally breed double merles expose their puppies to many severe health problems, which can be passed down to future generations. Standard merles have a slightly higher risk of health problems than non-merles, but the risk is substantially higher with double merles.
What Is a Cryptic Merle Chihuahua?
In addition to double merles, there are cryptic merle Chihuahuas. Also known as phantom merles, they have the merle gene but exhibit little or no merle pattern in their coat. Many owners assume they have a non-merle Chihuahua when they actually have a cryptic merle.
Cryptic merle Chihuahuas possess other genetic modifiers that mask the coat-lightening effects of the merle gene. They may have two copies of the recessive red allele, for instance. Chihuahuas with this genotype won’t produce any black fur. The recessive red alleles restrict their coat color to red and shades thereof.
The merle gene only affects areas of the coat that are pigmented with eumelanin. Chihuahuas with two recessive red alleles have phaeomelanin-pigmented coats; they don’t have eumelanin in their coats, so the merle gene doesn’t show up in their coats. Cryptic merle Chihuahuas still have the merle gene, and they may pink blue eyes and pink mottling on their paw pads and nose, but they don’t have the same coat pattern as standard merles.
Are Merle Chihuahuas Allowed to Compete in the Show Ring?
It’s a common misconception that merle Chihuahuas are prohibited from competing in the show ring. Many canine organizations do, in fact, view the merle gene as a fault. They prohibit owners from registering and competing their merle Chihuahuas in the show ring.
In 2007, The Kennel Club (TKC) banned the registration of merle Chihuahuas. Just a few years later, it banned the registration of all Chihuahuas that are the offspring of a merle sire or dam. Even if a Chihuahua doesn’t have a merle coat, it can’t be registered with the United Kingdom’s official canine organization if one or both of his parents are merles. Other non-U.S. canine organizations have implemented their own bans, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) allows merle Chihuahuas to compete in the show ring.
The Chihuahua Club of America (CCA), the AKC’s official parent club of the Chihuahua, voted against the TKC’s disqualification of merle Chihuahuas. The AKC has since added merle as one of the breed’s standard markings. Therefore, you can register your merle Chihuahua with the AKC, and you can compete him in the show ring. The registration requirements for merle Chihuahuas, however, are more stringent than those for non-merles.
DNA Testing Kits for Merle Chihuahuas
Think your Chihuahua might have the merle gene? You may want to order a DNA testing kit. You can’t rely on appearance alone to determine if your Chihuahua has the merle gene. There are cryptic merle Chihuahuas that look like non-merles. With a DNA testing kit, you can check your Chihuahua’s genotype to determine whether he’s a merle.
Many breeders use DNA testing kits to ensure that they don’t accidentally breed double merles. Breeding a merle sire to a merle dam may result in double merles in the litter. Rather than relying strictly on the appearance of the sire’s and dam’s coats, breeders can use a DNA testing kit. The DNA testing kit will reveal the exact genotype, such as mm, Mm or MM. If the merle gene is present in both the merle and dam, they shouldn’t be bred.
Even if you have no intentions of breeding your Chihuahua, you may still want to use a DNA testing kit. It will provide you with insight into your canine companion’s genetic makeup. You just need to swab your Chihuahua’s mouth for a DNA sample, after which you can mail it to a laboratory for analysis. The company from which you purchased the kit will provide you with a detailed report about your Chihuahua’s genotype.
Here are some of the top DNA testing kits for merles:
Embark
University of California, Davis
Paw Print Genetics
In Conclusion
Merle is a genetic pattern found in dozens of dog breeds, one of which is the Chihuahua. It’s characterized by a mottled coat with patches of dark-colored fur on a light-colored base. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigments and can result in a wide range of beautiful coat patterns, including the blue merle patter and the red merle pattern. While merle is not exclusive to Chihuahuas, it adds a distinctive charm to this already captivating breed.
